Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

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Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Ready in a little over an hour, this Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls recipe is the ultimate decadence. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are filled with savory pumpkin and warm spices. The chai cream cheese glaze adds a unique twist that will comfort your soul on chilly days and make any occasion special.

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chai creates a warm, inviting taste that’s perfect for fall.
  • Versatile Serving: Enjoy these rolls at breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert.
  • Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect even for beginner bakers.
  • Comfort Food: The soft texture and rich flavors offer a cozy treat that everyone will love.
  • Impressive Presentation: These rolls look as good as they taste, making them a great centerpiece for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Stand mixer or mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

  • Stand mixer or mixing bowls: A stand mixer makes it easier to knead dough without much effort, while mixing bowls are essential for combining ingredients.
  • Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon rolls.
  • Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your rolls.
Homemade

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened (You can use whole milk if desired)
  • 2 black tea bags, premium (You can also use a chai tea bag and omit the spice blend)
  • 2 Tbsps pure maple syrup
  • 1 Tbsp chai spice blend (See Notes!)
  • 4 cups organic All-purpose flour (I love Bob’s Red Mill)
  • 2 cups Artisan Bread flour (I love Bob’s Red Mill; See Notes!)
  • 1 packet Rapid Rise Yeast (That’s 2 1/4 tsps!)
  • 1-2 tsps pumpkin spice blend
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 cup WARM water
  • 1/2 cup organic brown sugar + 1 Tbsp
  • 1 1/4 cup Almond milk, unsweetened + at room temp. (You can use whole milk or heavy cream if desired)
  • 1 cup organic pumpkin puree (NOT Pie filling!)
  • 2 large eggs, room temp.
  • 6 Tbsps unsalted butter, melted + cooled until warm (Make sure that it’s WARM, not hot!)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling

  • 1/2 cup organic brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temp.
  • 1 Tbsp Dessert Lover Blend

For the Glaze

  • 3 cups organic powdered sugar, sifted
  • 4 oz. organic cream cheese, softened at room temp. (That’s 1/2 a pack!)
  • 3-4 Tbsps cooled Chai tea mixture (See Notes!)

How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the almond milk until warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and steep the black tea bags for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, artisan bread flour, rapid rise yeast, pumpkin spice blend, sea salt, and brown sugar.
  3. Add the warm almond milk mixture along with warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

  • Using your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment:
    1. Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    2. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 16×24 inches.
  3. Spread softened butter over the surface of the dough evenly.
  4. Combine brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend; sprinkle this mixture evenly over buttered dough.

Step 4: Roll & Cut

  • Starting from one long side:
    1. Roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
    2. Slice into equal pieces about 1–2 inches thick and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.

Step 5: Bake & Glaze

  1. Allow rolls to rise again for about 15 minutes before placing in preheated oven.
  2. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  3. While they bake, prepare the glaze by combining powdered sugar and softened cream cheese with cooled chai tea mixture until smooth.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Once baked:
    • Drizzle chai glaze over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
    • Enjoy these delicious Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

These Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert. Their warm spices and creamy glaze will elevate any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Coffee

  • Enjoy these cinnamon rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a comforting morning ritual.

Add Fresh Fruit

  • Serve alongside slices of fresh apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.

Drizzle Extra Glaze

  • For those who love indulgence, drizzle additional chai cream cheese glaze over the top before serving.

Whipped Cream Topping

  • Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of creaminess and sweetness.

Ice Cream Side

  • Pair with a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for a decadent dessert treat.

Serve Warm

  • Always serve these rolls warm to maximize their fluffy texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Achieving the perfect homemade pumpkin chai cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

  • Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring that your eggs and milk are at room temperature helps create a smoother dough.
  • Knead the dough well – Kneading your dough for about 10 minutes will develop gluten, resulting in fluffier rolls.
  • Let dough rise properly – Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size; this step is crucial for light, airy rolls.
  • Don’t overfill – When spreading the filling, avoid going too close to the edges to prevent spillage during rolling.
  • Cool before glazing – Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before adding the glaze so it doesn’t melt completely away.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Complementing your homemade pumpkin chai cinnamon rolls with tasty side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options:

  1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
  2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the sweet rolls.
  3. Chai Tea – A warm cup of chai tea enhances the flavors in your cinnamon rolls and keeps you cozy.
  4. Quiche – A slice of savory quiche pairs well, offering a hearty contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
  5. Granola Bars – Homemade or store-bought granola bars can provide an easy grab-and-go option alongside your breakfast treat.
  6. Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce – A small bowl of maple syrup makes an excellent dip for those who love extra sweetness.
  7. Savory Scones – These can add variety to your table, providing a savory counterpart to the sweet cinnamon rolls.
  8. Herbal Tea – A soothing herbal tea can complement the spices in your rolls while keeping things light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to stumble over common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

  • Boldly measuring ingredients: Using inaccurate measurements can ruin your dough. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
  • Ignoring the yeast: Not allowing the yeast to activate can lead to dense rolls. Ensure it bubbles before mixing with other ingredients.
  • Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make your rolls tough. Mix just until combined and smooth for a fluffy texture.
  • Skipping the resting time: Not letting the dough rise adequately will result in flat rolls. Give it enough time to double in size.
  • Cooling the glaze improperly: Using hot glaze on warm rolls can cause it to melt away. Let your glaze cool before drizzling.
Homemade

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
  • They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat rolls for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
  • Microwave: Heat each roll for about 15-20 seconds on high, checking doneness frequently.
  • Stovetop: Place rolls in a pan with a lid over low heat, add a splash of water, and steam for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls:

How do I make my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls fluffier?

To achieve fluffier rolls, ensure you allow enough time for the dough to rise properly before baking.

Can I customize my Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

What is the best way to store leftover Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls?

For optimal freshness, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce, and use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. You can customize them with various fillings or toppings according to your preferences. Try making this comforting recipe today; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls


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  • Author: Lara
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the warmth of fall with these Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these delightful rolls are filled with savory pumpkin and aromatic chai spices. Topped with a luscious chai cream cheese glaze, they offer a cozy comfort that will brighten any chilly day. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, even beginner bakers can create this show-stopping treat in just over an hour. Bring the essence of autumn to your table and share these sweet rolls with friends and family for an unforgettable experience.


Ingredients

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  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 black tea bags (or chai tea)
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 4 cups organic all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups artisan bread flour
  • 1 packet rapid rise yeast
  • 12 teaspoons pumpkin spice blend
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • 1/2 cup organic brown sugar + 1 tablespoon
  • 1 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (room temperature)
  • 1 cup organic pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled until warm
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup organic brown sugar (for filling)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Dessert Lover Blend
  • 3 cups organic powdered sugar, sifted
  • 4 oz. organic cream cheese, softened
  • 34 tablespoons cooled chai tea mixture

Instructions

  1. Heat almond milk until warm; steep tea bags for 5 minutes.
  2. In a bowl or stand mixer, combine flours, yeast, pumpkin spice, salt, and brown sugar.
  3. Mix in warm almond milk and water until combined; knead until smooth.
  4. Let dough rise for 30 minutes in a greased bowl.
  5. Roll out dough into a rectangle; spread softened butter on top.
  6. Mix brown sugar and Dessert Lover Blend; sprinkle over buttered dough.
  7. Roll tightly into a log shape and cut into pieces.
  8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; let rise for 15 minutes.
  9. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar and cream cheese with cooled chai tea until smooth; drizzle over warm rolls.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 53g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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